Breaking Down the Term “Boutique Consulting Firm”

I’ve spent most of my career in large organizations, both in consulting and in the private sector. The last few years of my career have reaffirmed my belief that less can be more and that opportunities for growth are everywhere, especially in software consulting. As I get set to begin my third month as an Atom, it seemed pertinent to reflect on my journey to a boutique consulting firm. So, why did I make the move to Atomic Object, and what am I seeing now that I’m on the inside?

What is Boutique?

Before we get into my journey to a boutique consulting firm, let’s first ground ourselves in what is a boutique consulting firm. In consulting, firms are grouped, typically, by size and generalization. On one side are your huge multinational organizations that come with big reputations and, consequently, big price tags for their services. Think McKinsey & Company, EY, or Boston Consulting Group for instance. These firms are large in scope (10,000+ employees) and offer a wide range of consulting services, meaning that they can advise on almost anything. There may be teams within these large firms that can specialize and focus, however that ability to focus is where a boutique consulting firm plays.

A boutique firm tends to be smaller in size and will focus on an industry or a type of service or product. Take Atomic Object as an example. The firm has ~100 employees, is employee owned and specializes in custom software products that are beautiful, reliable, and easy to use. The ability to focus development with a smaller, dedicated employee base gives boutique firms a specific point of view and advantage in specialization that larger firms may not have. Now that we’ve set some definitions around the consulting world, let’s dive into my journey from consulting with a large firm to, now, consulting with Atomic Object.

Impact

As I was searching for my next role, I was looking for a firm where I could make a hands-on impact immediately. Getting involved in every aspect of a project, from account management to strategy formation to product delivery, was something I sought in my next position. Past projects I enjoyed the most were with small, focused teams that could ideate, innovate, and create products on the run. Those projects would shine bright temporarily. But, frustrations would emerge as those smaller, more agile teams can often be stunted and subject to the legacy inner workings of the larger organization. (This can be true even though those teams were established to be protected from those internal processes and politics).

As a Delivery Lead and software consultant with Atomic Object, I have been able to jump into all aspects of projects almost instantly. In the first 60 days of my start date, I’ve had the opportunity to run strategy workshops, mentor teams and workstreams, advise on organizational design, and work closely with clients to drive tangible outcomes through software. My experience has been broad and influential so far, and I have yet to encounter any shortage in the range of projects I’m able to jump into and do really exciting work.

Authenticity

Authenticity to me means the capacity and ability to feel seen and heard. It’s a two-way street; not only do you feel comfortable being fully present as yourself, but you are also received that way when you show up. It’s easy to feel like “employee number X” at a multinational organization where your values and influence on the firm’s direction may not be tangible or recognized. When I was reading about Atomic Object during my own search process, I was intrigued to find a firm that’s first value on its culture homepage is “Give a Shit” which implores you to fully be yourself in how you deliver results.

It’s clear that Atoms show up as they are: there is no shortage of spirited debates on software approaches, opportunity areas of improvement for the community, hot takes on best restaurants in the area and so many more. Those voices are encouraged and the firm rewards that spirit of engagement which leads to a strong sense of aligned purpose and mutual success. As someone who was looking to join a firm that fosters an intentional and collaborative environment, I can safely say that Atomic Object walks-the-walk and is the authentic firm it sets out to be.

Tenacity

One of the misconceptions I had about a boutique firm was that it was a laid-back, easy-going consultancy more focused on stability and status quo. I was accustomed to the up-or-out mentality and the pressure to ascend the corporate ladder as primary motivators for work. I have been incredibly impressed by the Atoms I’ve been able to work with and learn from. There is an aura of entrepreneurial spirit, a commitment to ‘crushing’ deliverables, and an insatiable appetite to learn and grow professionally that is infectious to be around.

It’s noticeable to our clients too; I’ve received feedback from clients that they keep working with Atomic given our track record of delivering significant results (and delivering them quickly). Don’t take my word for it, though. During my second week at the firm, I was invited to attend an event where Atomic Object was nominated for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year in Michigan and Northwest Ohio. The Atomic Object leadership team, Shawn and Mike, were recognized for their ability to “disrupt markets, revolutionize industries, and have a transformational impact on lives.”

Tenacity and drive for results at the software level, the people level and the corporate level are present everywhere throughout the firm. I’m so excited to be alongside the team doing that.

My mental model for the boutique consulting firm has been upended during my first two months at Atomic Object. The culture, the results, the people, and how it all gets done has been wonderful to be a part of. As I reflect on my Atomic journey thus far, it’s clear that the decision to join this dynamic team was the correct choice. If you’re interested in challenging your assumptions and working with a stellar team, come say hi!